Neuromodulator
Pronunciation: nyoor-oh-MOD-yoo-lay-tor
The preferred generic clinical term for injectable agents—most commonly botulinum toxin formulations—that temporarily inhibit muscle contraction by blocking acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction.
Full Definition
In cosmetic dermatology editorial contexts, 'neuromodulator' has increasingly replaced 'botulinum toxin' as the generic category descriptor, encompassing all commercially available formulations including onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox), abobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport), and incobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin). Editors should be aware that brand names are not interchangeable: each formulation has distinct dosing units that are not equivalent, and copy that equates units across brands must be queried. The term 'neuromodulator' is written as a single word without a hyphen. In regulatory and prescribing information, the INN (International Nonproprietary Name) of the specific formulation must be used; 'neuromodulator' alone is insufficient. Patient-facing copy often defaults to brand names, which editors working on clinical or regulatory documents should replace with the appropriate INN.
Usage
Usage note: Do not use brand names (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin) generically in clinical or regulatory copy. Use the INN or the category term 'neuromodulator'.
In Context
- "The clinical guidelines recommend the author use 'neuromodulator' as the category term and specify the individual formulation by INN thereafter." — Clinical guidelines document
- "Editors should flag patient consent forms that use 'Botox' as a generic term, replacing it with the appropriate INN or the category term 'neuromodulator'." — Patient consent form